Eyes on the ball

Nearly three-quarters of people aged under 35 are open to making friends through sports activities, according to a report on sports socializing consumption released by JD's Consumption and Industry Development Research Institute in March.

The study found that 73.7 percent of young respondents welcomed sports as a social avenue, with this figure jumping to 86.2 percent among extroverted personalities. Notably, even 60.8 percent of self-described introverts expressed interest in sports-based socializing.

Beyond social connections, the report found that participants value sports for multiple benefits. A total of 83.4 percent cited improved physical health, while 72.4 percent appreciated the opportunity to expand their social circle. In addition, 70.4 percent said that sports activities helped them develop a more positive and proactive outlook on life.

While socializing through sports has become a powerful way to bring people together, not all clubs find this focus sustainable. Banks Tennis in Shanghai believes that genuine passion for the game is what draws people in and keeps them coming back.

In the bustling heart of Shanghai's Lujiazui area, the outdoor tennis hub — co-founded by 31-year-old coach Qin Yun in March — prioritizes expert professional coaching and members' privacy demands.

Banks Tennis started out by hosting lively social events, from brand partnerships with tennis-themed activities to festive holiday tournaments. These gatherings drew a wide range of participants and created a party atmosphere.